How does an LCD television work?

LCD (liquid crystal diode) televisions react to electrical currents. The twisted, crystalline structures within manipulate and contort themselves depending on the amount of voltage running through them. The pliability of the “liquid-type” technology allows for a first-rate viewing experience.

LCD television monitors evade light. A solution of TN (twisted nematic) liquid crystals remains fixed between two panes of polarized glass; this situation enables a manipulation of light intensity as images pass through the viewing screen. Depending on variations of voltage, the liquid crystals untwist, affecting the light’s intensity; so, the eventual picture (produced by manipulation and formation of pixels) is always optimized for viewing pleasure. By producing a combination of red, blue, and green pixels of varying intensities, a single pixel triad has the ability to produce 16.8 million colors – pretty impressive!

Why purchase an LCD television?

Flat-screened televisions such as LCDs and plasma TVs offer brighter contrasts, meaning they will perform very well amidst most light settings. A well-lit room will not have an adverse effect on viewing, nor will an extremely dark room.

LCD televisions offer excellent “dot pitch” technology. This refers to the distance between sub-pixels of the same color within interconnecting pixel triads; the closer the dots are to one another, the better the presentation of the picture becomes to the viewer. The better the dot pitch, the more realistic and detailed images on the screen become. Dot pitch is measured in millimeters (mm), and smaller dot pitches enable improved viewing.

LCD televisions allow for a smooth, evenly-lit image spanning the entire surface of the viewing screen. In addition, the images are well endowed with color – 256 shades of blue x 256 shades of green x 256 shades of red = 16.8 million hues of color!
LCD televisions offer broadcast versatility. An LCD’s monitor can display HDTV, regular television, and home video – LCD televisions can actually readily accept most video formats. Most models have inputs for HDMI, S-video and component video, USB, and other computer-related inputs.

LCD televisions have very long, estimated life spans – some manufacturers estimate their models can last up to twenty years or more. With that in mind, maintaining a proper white balance is important; this involves the fluorescent bulbs associated with the LCD set. It is recommended to buy established brand-name LCD televisions. Some popular brands include Sony, Toshiba, JVC, and Sharp. Check the warranty on the LCD television set as well as that of the set’s backlighting system.

Distance between the screen and viewer

Many audio-visual critics suggest maintaining a proper amount of distance between the viewer and the LCD television for optimal viewing experience. The right amount of distance depends on the size of the LCD TV screen.

Here are a few suggestions for reference:

Sit 3 to 5 feet away from 20-27 inch screens

Sit 6 to 8 feet away from 32-37 inch screens

Sit 10-14 feet away from 42-46 inch screens

Sit 12-16 feet away from 50-inch screens

Situating your LCD TV

After considering the above information on distance from the screen, you can consider multiple options regarding situating your LCD television. Sam’s Club also features a variety of television wall mounts.

Look for low prices online. Buying online usually means lower prices because brick and mortar stores need to factor in costs such as rent, sales teams, and utility bills.

Combine the best of both shopping worlds. One of the main concerns for online shoppers is the lack of ability to see and touch desired products. It is recommended to visit some brick and mortar stores to physically see and manipulate certain LCD television models, and then go online to make a purchase.

LCD technology is always changing. Manufacturers are constantly accessing technology and improving upon prior models. Browse the most recent models for up-to-date technology.

Closely scrutinize the warranty. Remember that the warranty may differ regarding the actual set and the associated backlighting system. Without a properly functioning lighting system, the LCD television will not provide the same quality of performance.

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